Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Mobility Guys Podcast #4

Check it out folks...we have done it again!

4 Guys chatting about what they enjoy...MOBILITY, our devices, what we like and on occasion, what we don't.

This week, Don gives us a run-down of his mobile gear and his gear bag . We also talk about 3 new Mobile Devices and their impact on the future of mobility. And we round off the show discussing mobile media- the different services and content out there for mobile devices and the differences between stream and stored content of both audio and video content.

We hope you enjoy it!
You can see the show notes here and download the podcast at the Mobility Guys website or click here just to DOWNLOAD THE PODCAST

VaJa Cases - Definitely SLICK!

This case for the NEW Palm Treo 700w/p makes me want to get a new device!

This exclusive model presents all the features of the original Vaja T77, such as full access to main functions, speaker mesh protectors, semi-rigid flip cover with magnetic closure and optional SD slot with Push-Push system. This case charges and sycns through Palm travel cable.
Only available at http://www.vajachoice.com

Microsoft - Security and the Other Guys

Stan Beer wrote another neat article: Microsoft brings on Armageddon for security vendors

He talks about a "day of reckoning " for the BIG boys with the release of their own security package. With the release of Windows Live Onecare this month, Microsoft has now become a formidable opponent adversary. OF course, it was only a matter of time but....

In part, this is what Stan had to say:
The day of reckoning has arrived for Symantec, McAfee, Kapersky and the myriad of other would-be anti-virus, anti-spyware, firewall and assorted anti-malware peddlers. Their one-time benefactor Microsoft, the company that enabled them to build thriving businesses by selling products to protect its less than perfect operating system Windows, has pulled the plug by releasing its own security package.


You can read Stan's article here

PlanMaker 2006 for Windows - beta

SoftMaker has announced the release of the public beta of PlanMaker 2006 for Windows.

This new version of our spreadsheet package for Windows offers valuable improvements over PlanMaker 2004, such as:

- Unicode support

- Menus and dialogs are available in English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Turkish, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese.

- Create worksheets with checkboxes, input fields, radio buttons, selection lists etc. -- fully compatible with Microsoft Excel 2003

- Input validation

- Headers and footers are not split into three separate regions

- Microsoft Excel filters improved again

... and quite a bit more!


You can download the free beta from our web site and try it for yourself.

We are also preparing beta versions of PlanMaker 2006 for Linux and Pocket PCs and will announce them when they are available.

Find out more about PlanMaker 2006: http://www.softmaker.com/english/pmw06_en.htm

AMD LIVE!

Entertainment Suite Enables Consumers to Stream Live TV

AMD Cranks Up the Volume on Digital Entertainment With the AMD LIVE! PC

AMD announced today the next milestone in digital entertainment with the AMD LIVE! PC -- a full-featured, easy-to-use media center PC, designed to enable consumers to organize, distribute, share, and enjoy their content collection throughout the home and on the go. Leading OEMs including Acer, Alienware, Fujitsu Siemens Computers, Gateway, HP, Sahara, and Tsinghua Tongfang, as well as system builders in North America, Western Europe, and China, will have AMD LIVE! PCs, powered by the award-winning AMD Athlon(TM) 64 X2 dual-core processor, starting in June.

The AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite, a collection of services and applications designed to enhance the PC experience, is also available today at http://www.amdlive.com.

"The AMD LIVE! PC and AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite represent the culmination of industry-leading companies collaborating around open standards to deliver compelling entertainment solutions," said Bob Brewer, corporate vice president, Desktop Business, AMD. "With the AMD LIVE! PC, AMD begins delivering on its vision for merging broadcast TV content with interactive, personalized broadband applications and services, all without disrupting the devices already accepted and used by consumers in their homes today."

The AMD LIVE! PC is designed to help consumers get more enjoyment out of their digital media by consolidating their content in a central location and delivering the tools to help them easily and seamlessly access that content through the devices they already have.

"Today customers are looking for PCs that will allow them to view, interact and play new content from broadcast television to music to games," said Tom Anderson, vice president of marketing, global consumer PCs, Personal Systems Group, HP. "By offering AMD LIVE!-branded PCs, our customers will have the ability to buy a PC that will meet their evolving entertainment needs."

"We've seen remarkable enthusiasm for Windows XP Media Center Edition PCs, which enable consumers to enjoy their photos, music, TV shows and movies throughout the home," said Mike Sievert, corporate vice president, Windows Client Marketing at Microsoft. "By collaborating with AMD to deliver a powerful combination of digital entertainment software on a strong media platform, Microsoft is helping to provide consumers with rich, engaging experiences."

The first solutions to be offered in the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite include AMD LIVE! On Demand powered by Orb Networks: a service that streams live or pre-recorded television programs, photos, music and movies to many common Web-connected devices; AMD LIVE! Compress: a tool that optimizes recorded television content in order to save space and time, enabling customers to save up to 10 times as many TV shows on their PC; AMD LIVE! Network Magic: an easy-to-use service that allows users to set up, manage and secure their home network; AMD LIVE! LogMeIn: a service providing users the ability to remotely control their AMD LIVE! PC to obtain access to content, files and programs from anywhere; and AMD LIVE! Media Vault(TM): a service that can automatically back up users' digital content collection to a secure online server. Once registered and activated, AMD LIVE! PC users will receive 25GB of free storage to safely store their personal photos, home movies and music collections.

Many of these applications and services are available for free download beginning today from AMD at http://www.amdlive.com. Over time, the website will evolve into a repository of tips and tools to help consumers build out their entertainment world. With home networks, and using technology such as Microsoft Media Center Extender, the site will be available both in a "two-foot" Internet in the study and "10-foot" television experience in the living room.

"Our vision for AMD LIVE! is to apply the power and flexibility of AMD64 processors in ways that help consumers to get a richer entertainment experience when and where they want, using their favorite entertainment components and devices," said Joe Menard, corporate vice president, Consumer Business Segment, AMD. "Moving forward, our mission is to put in place the additional technology and expand the ecosystem to make these new experiences even more simple and enjoyable."

AMD recently announced their agreement with STMicroelectronics to develop world-class, high-definition networked set-top box solutions for consumers to connect to a desktop or notebook PC, transforming the TV experience from traditional and "linear" to a new, interactive experience. AMD and STMicroelectronics will demonstrate this solution from June 6-9 at Computex in Taipei, Taiwan.

AMD LIVE! PCs will improve consumers' connectivity by enabling their PC to stream music through their entertainment center, view and share photos on the TV, burn recorded TV shows, videos, music and pictures to a DVD or CD, or transfer this same content to a notebook, MP3, portable media player (PMP) or personal digital assistant (PDA). Consumers will be able to build their entertainment world at their pace with AMD LIVE! PCs designed for flexibility, built for longevity and engineered for the future.

About the AMD LIVE! Brand

Created in 2004, the AMD LIVE! brand has promoted top film, broadcast, and music professional artists using AMD64 technology. AMD LIVE! is rooted in the adoption of AMD64 technology by the professional creative community, lifting technology barriers that once stunted artistic expression. AMD has worked with this community to evolve the renaissance of digital content creation providing powerful AMD64 technology to everyone from top professionals to the budding artist creating rich, immersive content at the speed of inspiration. The AMD LIVE! brand is now extended from its roots in professional content creation to also represent best-of-breed solutions to enhance the management, access, and enjoyment of content. AMD LIVE! notebook PCs, powered by AMD Turion(TM) 64 X2 dual-core mobile technology, are expected to be available in the second half of 2006.

About AMD

Advanced Micro Devices (NYSE:AMD) is a leading global provider of innovative microprocessor solutions for computing, communications and consumer electronics markets. Founded in 1969, AMD is dedicated to delivering superior computing solutions based on customer needs that empower users worldwide. For more information visit http://www.amd.com.

(C) 2006 Advanced Micro Devices Inc. AMD, the AMD Arrow logo, AMD Turion, AMD Athlon, AMD LIVE! and combinations thereof, are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices Inc. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other jurisdictions. Other names are for informational purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

AMD LIVE! Partner Support Addendum

AMD is working with industry-leading companies to deliver differentiated technology and solutions to consumers for the AMD LIVE! PC and AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite including Alienware, Creative, D-Link, Logitech, LogMeIn Inc., Network Magic, Market Engines, Orb Networks, Sahara, Shuttle, Streamload, Tsinghua Tongfang, and ZT Group Int'l.

"Alienware systems branded with AMD LIVE! work with and enhance the technology devices consumers already own, ensuring an exhilarating entertainment experience whether at home or on the road," said Mark Vena, vice president of Marketing at Alienware. "Alienware shares AMD's commitment to open standards and promoting new entertainment experiences with AMD LIVE!, enabling consumers to achieve a higher level of system and content personalization for their digital lifestyle."

"The award-winning Creative Zen Vision:M portable MP3 player, video player and photo viewer provides a compelling portable solution to harness the power that an AMD LIVE! PC and the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite bring to digital entertainment in the home," said Brad Anderson, director of product marketing at Creative. "By offering tools like AMD LIVE! Compress and supporting open file formats on AMD LIVE! PCs, users can fill their 30GB Zen Vision:M with the highest quality music, movies and photos in a wide variety of popular formats."

"When we introduced our MediaLounge(TM) wireless media player, it was one of the industry's first such products to literally change the way people enjoyed digital home entertainment," said Daniel Kelley, director of marketing at D-Link Systems Inc. "We are excited to see our technology integrated with the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite. Now more consumers can experience first hand the benefits of streaming live or prerecorded TV programs and movies, accessing digital photos and music from anywhere on the home network, and other exciting options available through the combination of AMD LIVE! and the award-winning MediaLounge family of products."

"AMD LIVE! is positioned to turn the vision of the PC as an entertainment and communications hub for the living room into a broad consumer reality," said Fred Swan, director of Strategic Development for the Logitech Entertainment and Communications Business Unit. "Logitech provides personal peripherals that people love to use while they work, play, and communicate. We believe that AMD LIVE! is an ideal platform for Logitech's award-winning products and the new platform will bring both companies to new levels of innovation."

"Part of LogMeIn's mission is to give people a seamless anywhere, anytime link to their computer files and programs and AMD LIVE! enables customers to access the rich-media content that is part of their digital lifestyle," said Michael Simon, CEO of LogMeIn Inc. "By working with AMD on the AMD LIVE! vision, together we can extend the availability -- and therefore the value of everyone's digital experiences."

"Network Magic is the leading provider of consumer home networking solutions for the digital home," said Sherman Griffin, vice president of marketing, Network Magic. "By delivering Network Magic as part of the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite, consumers have an easy-to-use service that sets up, manages, and secures their home network, and allows them to easily share content amongst all of the PCs and devices in their digital home."

"PowerCompress is proud to work with AMD to deliver AMD LIVE! Compress and help contribute to their vision in providing customers with an integrated suite of hardware and software technologies that offer comprehensive, easy-to-use media solutions for consumers," Daniel Assouline, CEO, Market Engines. "We believe AMD LIVE! provides an ideal way for customers to enjoy their media and realize the potential of Windows Media Center as a real '10-foot' extended PC entertainment solution. With the help of PowerCompress, consumers can now benefit from greater portability of their media, more capacity to record their TV shows for archival and the ability to use them on a variety of devices inside and outside the home."

"Orb shares AMD's vision to provide consumers with unmatched, personalized digital entertainment experiences through innovative technology," said Jim Behrens, CEO, Orb Networks. "By offering our award-winning software as part of the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite, we can together provide consumers secure and instant access to their TV, music, videos and more on mobile phones, PDAs, PCs and other devices from anywhere in the world."

"Today's discerning consumers are in search of more capable systems that will allow them to stay connected whenever and wherever," said George Van Der Merwe, chief operating officer, Sahara Computers & Electronics Ltd. "By delivering AMD LIVE! on Sahara-branded PCs, we are able to leverage best-of-breed components and software to build solutions that not only address consumers' current entertainment needs, but also grow with them to meet their ever-changing entertainment needs."

"Shuttle Computers is excited to participate with AMD on the launch of the new AMD LIVE! PC," says Michael Wu, president of Shuttle Computers North America. "At Shuttle, we believe our technologically advanced products are the perfect match to the rich features and benefits that AMD LIVE! has to offer. What better way to experience enhanced digital media through AMD64 technology inside a stylish and compact Shuttle XPC system design that fits any room decor. With this relationship, together our products bring forth the digital freedom that consumers have been waiting for."

"Streamload's award-winning storage technology is helping to provide anytime, anywhere access of users' digital media," said Adrian J. Herrera, director of business development, Streamload. "With the AMD LIVE! Media Vault as part of the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite, we are working with AMD to provide a secure and reliable way for AMD LIVE! PC users to back up, share and remotely access their digital photos, music, videos and documents."

"Our cooperation with AMD to deliver AMD LIVE!-branded PCs is intended to satisfy the demands of end users, while offering them more choice," said Zou Yong, general manager assistant, Computer System Business Group, Tsinghua Tongfang Co. Ltd. "As a professional supplier of IT products and solutions, Tsinghua Tongfang is dedicated to working with industry-leading global companies like AMD to provide rich and exciting digital life experiences for consumers."

"Technology is constantly evolving to meet customer needs," said Bob Anderson, vice president, Business Development and Strategy, ZT Group Int'l, makers of the official NASCAR digital experience PC. "It's no surprise then that consumers are in search of digital entertainment solutions that will work with and enhance the technology they already have. Our approach matches nicely with AMD's commitment to open standards with AMD LIVE! that lets consumers ultimately achieve new levels of system and content personalization for their digital lifestyle."


Click read more below to see the full news item

Tuesday, May 30, 2006

The Falcon Is Circling Overhead - McAfee's New Security Platform

McAfee Unveils Next-Generation Device, Wireless Network Security Platform

New, Easiest to Use Security Platform Features Comprehensive Protection Including Latest Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware and Breakthrough Threat Prevention Technologies.

McAfee, Inc. will soon release the industry's first fully integrated consumer security service platform, code-named "Falcon." McAfee's new security platform will deliver complete protection with McAfee's latest products which encompass next- generation anti-virus, anti-spyware, and breakthrough proactive "threat watch" technologies. In addition, the platform has been completely re-architected to provide a single access point that allows consumers to easily manage their McAfee security products. The service, which has been under stealth development for more than 12 months, will debut this summer, and provide consumers with a choice of comprehensive protection service packages.

"We know from our research and relationship with millions of consumers that PC security is confusing and complex to them," said Marc Solomon, Director of Product Management, McAfee Consumer. "With the launch of 'Falcon' this summer, we have integrated into our award-winning products powerful, yet easy to use protection that addresses both existing and emerging threats. For the consumer, we not only continue to stop the bad guys in their tracks but we will even be able sniff out and stop suspicious activity. 'Falcon' builds upon McAfee's leadership in making great security and protection nearly transparent to the user and takes consumer security to an entirely new level."

With the new McAfee SecurityCenter, the industry's first dashboard which McAfee introduced in 2001, consumers can manage all aspects of their security services under one menu. These activities include viewing their computer's security status; checking for updates against newly discovered viruses, malware and other threats; and fixing potential security issues simply by clicking a button.

The McAfee Security Center, which also informs consumers about the latest security alerts, overlays McAfee's current award-winning technologies that guard against viruses, spyware, hackers and spam with new, innovative technologies to protect users against phishing scams, zero-hour attacks, "slow PC syndrome," and data loss. In addition, the service will raise the bar to deliver enhanced proactive protection, marrying sophisticated research with technological innovation to safeguard consumers against today's most pressing issues including identity theft, hybrid threats, and stealth technologies. For example, McAfee will use SystemGuards — behavior-based technologies — to watch consumers' computers for specific behaviors that may signal virus, spyware, or hacker activity, and McAfee X-Ray for Windows will detect and kill rootkits (a set of tools used to gain access to a computer system) and other malicious applications that hide from Windows and other anti-virus programs.

Moving Beyond the PC to Protect the Network

Today, many consumers set up home networks, including a growing number of wireless networks. With the release of Falcon, McAfee's builds on its wireless home network protection and provides users an easy way to view the security status of other systems on their home network. McAfee products offer users a picture of their network, and give them the ability to view details and remotely fix potential security issues. McAfee's network security cuts through the confusion many consumers face when setting up secured Wi-Fi networks, making it easy to set up and view PCs, printers and other devices to the network.

Understanding computer security is complex and confusing to users, Falcon offers both a basic view for consumers who want a high-level overview of the security performance of their PCs, as well as an advanced view, which will allow more sophisticated users to view and fine-tune detailed security settings. The views are accessible via the McAfee SecurityCenter.

Visit McAfee here


Click read more below to see the full news item

Microsoft Delivers First Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac Users

Microsoft Corp. today announced the availability of the Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac, its first Mac-specific desktop complete with a stylish wireless Comfort Curve Keyboard and a wireless High Definition laser mouse. With this new desktop set, the Microsoft Hardware division combines comfortable design with High Definition technology to deliver the ultimate in cutting-edge performance, luxury and style to any Mac user. The futuristic silver finish complements the Mac design to make a mark on any desktop while providing the freedom of wireless control.

The Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac features Microsoft's first keyboard designed specifically for the Mac. The key layout is consistent with Mac-only keyboards. To truly meet Mac users' needs, this is Microsoft's only keyboard without the Windows Start button. The Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac is compatible with the new Intel-based Mac machines as well as PowerPC models, and will have Hot Keys that map to Mac programs such as iTunes and iPhoto.

"We are excited to see our colleagues on the Microsoft Hardware team provide this Mac-only keyboard and mouse to strengthen Microsoft's lineup of products for Mac users, which includes our productivity suite, Office 2004 for Mac," said Scott Erickson, director of product management and marketing for the Macintosh Business Unit at Microsoft. "This launch further demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to enhancing the computing experience for Mac users. We were able to preview the product at Macworld this January and saw firsthand the very favorable response from Mac customers."

For greater comfort at work or in the home, the Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac's Comfort Curve Keyboard encourages natural hand and wrist positioning in an easy-to-use layout for enhanced comfort and productivity. The Comfort Curve design is preferred by a ratio of 3-to-1 over flat, straight keyboards, and includes a cushioned palm rest for supreme comfort. Designed and tested by Microsoft's in-house ergonomists and usability experts, the Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac is the ultimate in comfort and performance for Mac users and includes the following key features:

— Mac Modifier Keys. Control, Option and Command buttons are right where users need them.

— Zoom Slider. Consumers can zoom in for a closer look at digital pictures, maps and more.

— My Favorites Keys. These five keys can be customized to instantly bring up favorite photos, folders, files and Web pages.

— Eject key. This key lets users easily eject CDs and DVDs.

— Hot Keys. These buttons offer one-touch, immediate access to programs consumers use the most, including those for e-mail, chat, music, photos and the Web.


The Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac features a sleek silver wireless High Definition laser mouse. Microsoft's cutting-edge High Definition technology is two generations ahead of standard optical mouse products and gives the mouse ultimate precision and responsiveness. In addition, the mouse utilizes Microsoft's Intelligent Tracking System for smoother tracking without interruptions or skipping, even over unique surfaces. For enhanced performance this mouse also features a Tilt Wheel for navigating and viewing documents and spreadsheets with ease. One-click access to Microsoft's Magnifier tool makes the Mac magnifier feature more discoverable for real-time document enlargement.

"The Hardware team has been creating Mac-compatible peripherals for many years," said Rusty Jeffress, general manager of the Microsoft Hardware team at Microsoft. "We always value the feedback of our customers; for this product we went back to the drawing board with the specific requests of our Mac users, and are excited to deliver our first Mac-specific keyboard and mouse that provide the tools and features Mac users need to be productive."

The Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac will be available this summer for an estimated retail price of $99.95 (U.S.).

Click read more below to see the full news item

Chapura Increases Outlook Synchronization Capability of Windows Mobile 5 Smartphone Devices

Multi-folder, Multi-PC Synchronization Features of PocketMirror Professional 2.1 Add New Dimension of Mobile Productivity to Lives of Smartphone Owners

Chapura, Inc., an innovator of synchronization technology for mobile personal information managers (PIMs), today announced that the company has updated its popular Outlook synchronization software, PocketMirror(R) Professional for Microsoft Windows Mobile, to support the Smartphone edition of Windows Mobile 5, in addition to the Pocket PC and Pocket PC Phone Editions of Windows Mobile 5.0 that the previous version supported. The updated PocketMirror software supports the smartphones produced by manufacturers who use the default Windows Mobile Application Security Policy, such as the Moto Q smartphone from Motorola.

PocketMirror(R) Professional 2.1 for Windows Mobile adds a new dimension of mobile productivity to the lives of smartphone owners by allowing them to synchronize multiple Outlook folders on multiple PCs with their device and keep the folders' contents organized separately and easily identifiable on the handheld. While the built-in ActiveSync software transfers and updates data only between the default Outlook folders on the PC and Mobile Outlook, Chapura's exclusive AnyFolder(TM) technology in PocketMirror Professional for Windows Mobile lets customers pick and choose which Outlook Contacts, Calendar and Tasks folders to synchronize with their handheld, including any public and subfolders on a Microsoft Exchange Server. In addition, PocketMirror Professional for Windows Mobile creates folder-like categories, denoted with an asterisk, to keep the data separate on the mobile device like it is in Outlook. This convenient mobile filing system helps customers easily synchronize work folders at their work PC and personal folders with their home PC.

"Chapura wants customers to know just how easy it is to carry and organize multiple Outlook folders on a pda or smartphone using PocketMirror Professional for Windows Mobile," said Keith Ellenberg, president of Chapura. "'See asterisk, think folder' is the guideline for creating and identifying folder-like categories on the mobile device."

Migrating Data from Palm OS(R) to Windows Mobile Device

As consumers and enterprise customers continue to migrate between platforms, the swift and accurate transfer of personal information between devices is vital. Using PocketMirror Professional for Window Mobile in concert with PocketCopy software from Chapura, customers can easily transfer their data from the Palm(R) Desktop to the new device via Microsoft Outlook. At the touch of a button, PocketCopy copies Palm Desktop Address Book, Date Book, To Do List and Memo Pad or Contacts, Calendar, Tasks and Memos information into Microsoft Outlook Contacts, Calendar, Tasks and Notes. From there, customers may use the Active Sync software on their Windows Mobile device and PocketMirror Professional for Windows Mobile to synchronize the data between Outlook and the mobile device.

Pricing and Availability

PocketMirror Professional for Windows Mobile is available for $49.95 and PocketCopy is available for $19.95 from the Chapura Web site at http://www.chapura.com and from leading online resellers including Handango at http://www.handango.com, and PocketGear at http://www.pocketgear.com.

Click read more below to see the full news item

Innergy Power’s Emergency Preparedness Kit

The Emergency Preparedness Kit is a compact, portaable renewable energy source that can be recharged from the sun when power is out.

Innergy Power’s Emergency Preparedness Kit is a unique power solution designed to meet the basic communication and lighting needs of victims of natural disasters and blackouts as well as rescue personnel. The heart of the Emergency Preparedness Kit is the IP1208PP Power Pack, a 12V, 8Ah source of power that can be recharged from the sun, from the wall or from the cigarette lighter (DC outlet) receptacle of a car or truck.

With the included wall charger, the Emergency Preparedness Kit can be left on charge permanently, meaning it will be ready to use immediately during a power outage. The Power Pack comes equipped with a detachable cigarette lighter receptacle (DC plug) that can power a wide range of devices including cell phones, laptop PCs, two-way radios and lighting products. Power can be provided to these devices during sustained power outages caused by blackouts, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc. Once the sun is shining, the Power Pack can be recharged with the built-in solar module, eliminating the need for gas-powered generators.

The Emergency Preparedness Kit comes equipped with a 12V halogen light that can be immediately plugged into the Power Pack to provide up to 18 hours of continuous light.

The ballistic nylon carrying case holds the Power Pack, the wall charger, the detachable DC plug, the halogen light and includes sufficient space for other essential emergency supplies like first aid kits.

Find out more here at INNERGY

Special Deluxeware Software Offer

From Tuesday 30th May 2006 for one week only, every Deluxeware game and application is being offered at a very special price at the Astraware store. Deluxeware's software features a wide range of useful utilities, reference applications and fun sports, action and puzzle games including Blackjack Deluxe, Earth Navigator, Hedgehog, Caribbean Poker, Travel Deluxe SE, and Clock Deluxe. All titles are compatible with Palm OS(R) 4.0 upwards.

Deluxe Discounts of 25% or more are available on every Deluxeware game or application at the Astraware website from Tuesday 30th May to Tuesday 6th June 2006 with discounted games as low as $4.95. To check out the selection of Deluxe Discounts, visit the Astraware website at http://www.astraware.com, and don't forget you can earn Club Astraware points on all Deluxeware titles you buy!

This Could Be It! - The Sony UX50



HDTV: Video of the Sony Vaio UX50
Akihabara News has AGAIN come up with an exclusive with a GREAT video of the new Sony UX50!

The manufacturer has just started supplying the first machines to the retailers yesterday and today, and the UX90 should hit the shelves by the end of this week. A number of shops like Yodobashi Camera have some demo machines on display from this afternoon onwards and some other shops have not received their units yet, so this really is HOT news!


Check it out...it is simple, short and gives a neat "first look". I can't wait to see the reviews from the folks who are lucky enough to get an early look.

Visit Akihabara News here to catch the video

Thanks to Chris at Mobilitysite for the link to this story

Monday, May 29, 2006

Taking a bite of the (Apple) Game

Rumor has it it that:
...there may be more to the Apple-game rumors than mere Mac-mad daydreams. A tech-sector recruiter contacted the GS NewsDesk with an interesting story of a prospective hire that got away. Recently, when said recruiter made an offer to a software engineer, the engineer turned the offer down--saying he was being "heavily recruited by Apple."

According to the engineer, an Apple hiring manager named Mike Lampell is heading up a group inside Apple's storied iTunes division. The group is specifically hiring for "C/C++ coders with a ‘gaming background.’" The engineer says the project in question was described to him as "super secret," and Apple would not even tell him the exact nature of it until he had been hired and signed a non-disclosure agreement.


It seems only natural to me that Apple will STRONGLY consider going that next step to add one more "killer" item to their immensely popular iPod.

MUSIC...VIDEOS...and now GAMES! How BIG is that market?

Check out the GameSpot Rumor Control

We Feel Fine ... well, sort of


I had an email earlier today from a friend pointing out this site. This is NOT how I Experience Mobility but I did find it interesting.

An exploration of human emotion, in six movements by Jonathan Harris and Sepandar Kamvar

Health Concerns over Wi-Fi?

Are you experiencing headaches, fatigue, irritability, and lack of concentration? Experts believe that it might be caused by your Wi-Fi network. I found this interesting because I have been experiencing a lack of concentration lately...but I thought it was caused by the desire to be out on the lake.....

The article goes on to say that "there is an increasing body of evidence to suggest certain people are hypersensitive to the emissions from wireless access points and other electromagnetic devices".

What do you think?

You can read the article "Experts Raise Health Concerns over Wi-Fi" here.

The Q1 - "1 kilogram wasteland,"

Barry Levine from newsfactor.com wrote an interesting article that you might find interesting. He talked about the effort to crossbreed an Ultra Mobile PC from a laptop, a PDA, and a portable media player with the eventual introduction of the Samsung Q1.

There are definitely "Mixed Reviews" from those that are keeping tabs on the first Q1. From being too small (or too big), limited battery life and an incredibly HIGH price tag($1,099, there certainly has been a lot of discussion.

Check out Barry's article...

Vaja Inspired to Design by the World Cup

....and the tradition continues.

The exclusive World Cup Collection has all the features of the original iVod, such as padded interior, screen and wheel protectors, headphones, syncs & charge cutouts and easy access to all touch functions. Choose your iVod World Cup according to your favorite team and start playing, only at http://www.vajacases.com

VaJa has always impressed me with their cases especially this new line of cases for the iPod. Recently I gave my son an iVod case to protect his iPod Video. If you want to see the review I did, you can read it here at Mobilitysite.

Note: This collection is also available for Razr V3 Leather Suit

Digismart - Miniature Projection Technology

You hear the BIG sound now SEE the BIG picture!

Can you imagine...create a powerpoint presentation, save it to your mobile device then at a business meeting use your device as a projector to show your presentation. Sounds cool, huh?

Digismart is a patented technology that will soon allow mobile handsets and other devices to have projection capabilities.

The advent of 3G, Bluetooth, PXT, WAP, Voice Recognition and WiFi convergence and connectivity technologies, increase content capacity and transmission capabilities. Despite all that, detailed images are not possible due to small display screens. Digismart enhances functionality by addressing these constraints.

The Digismart technology design, centres on the use of a miniature wide-angle lens system. The design protection covers the unique lens arrangements and use of solid state or filament lamps (the former largely eliminate heat end energy consumption issues) for fixed, hand-held and mobile apparatus applications.

In the context of practical applications, images from the mobile phone screen can be projected onto a wall or other flat surface.

Both business and leisure markets will benefit from the Digismart application. There is a clear opportunity for this core technology to be available in the mobile phone market, ideally promoted by, and integrated into, the product portfolio of a leader in the market.

Check out this amazing technology here at digislide

Special thanks to Dave over at http://geekswithblogs.net for finding this item...

Sunday, May 28, 2006

WebCopier for Pocket PC - Internet When You Don't Have a Connection

MaximumSoft Corp. announced the release of WebCopier for Pocket PC 4.3. The program allows to download entire Web sites, store them locally and view them later view them on desktop computers or Pocket PCs, at users’ convenience. WebCopier provides access to the downloaded information at any time, no matter where its users are, no Internet connection is required.

WebCopier can copy or print whole sites or sections, and you can schedule the downloads to occur at a particular time. Your saved pages can then be copied onto disks and CDs, so you can take your Web-snapshot with you.

Individuals can use WebCopier to save complete copies of their favorite sites, magazines, or stock quotes. Students can download enormous amounts of information from the Internet for later study. Teachers can download whole sites so their students can view them later offline. Developers may use this tool for analyzing web sites.

Companies can use WebCopier to transfer company's intranet contents to staff desktops and notebooks, create a copy of companies’ online catalogs and brochures for sales personal, backup corporate web sites, print downloaded files.

The new version contains major improvements in all components, automatically checks for new versions, has improved Java applets parsing and provides full Windows Mobile 5.0 support.

Visit MaximumSoft Corp. here

Saturday, May 27, 2006

FREE411 - A Very Cool Service!

It's simple. Dial 1-800-FREE411 for free directory assistance. You may hear a short relevant offer while we're looking up your number...

Have you ever been "out and about' and have the need to make a call but you either forget or don't know the number? So, what do you do? Dial 411...get the number...and GET a CHARGE on your NEXT Cell bill! NO MORE BABY!!

There is a service available out there for you to get your numbers while you are trying to Experience Mobility and the service is ABSOLUTELY FREE!. In theory, there might be a "short" advertisement(5-10 sec) prior to receiving the number...it has NOT occured for me at this writing. If they don’t have an ad that makes sense for you to hear, they won't play you one...pretty cool!

I have had terrific luck with the service and without hesitation reccomend it for you tio add to you speed dial. Experience Mobility easier....dial 1-800-FREE411

The service is made possible by national and local businesses who sponsor this service with brief valuable offers that are played to 1-800-FREE411 callers. This allows businesses to attract new customers over the phone, cost effectively, with little or no risk. Meanwhile, our callers get completely free directory assistance, saving you significant dollars per year.

The company was founded by veteran advertising and technology executives who pioneered some of the most innovative and successful advertising solutions in online media, and who hate to pay every time they call 411.

To learn more about how 1-800-FREE411 works and can save you money, click here.

Be Adventurous - Try the 2007 Microsoft Office System Beta

See how significant updates to Microsoft Office make it easier to get the results you want.

Evaluate the next release of Microsoft Office products for testing and planning purposes with 2007 Microsoft Office system Beta 2. The beta release contains all the functionality of the regular release, but is not the final product.

About Beta Software
Registration is required for participation.

2007 Microsoft Office system Beta 2 is for evaluation and planning purposes only.

Beta software does not necessarily display the same high level of stability of shipped Microsoft products.

Beta testers may experience problems with 2007 Microsoft Office system Beta 2 products that could potentially result in loss, corruption, or destruction of existing data.

This beta testing release is not appropriate for production use.

It is strongly recommended that you back up your existing data before you install and run this software.

Beta code is offered "as is," and does not include technical support.

Many organizations have policies prohibiting unauthorized software installation on company-owned computers. Make sure you check with your IT department before downloading and installing 2007 Microsoft Office system Beta 2 on your computer at work.


This is a "cool" opportunity to see what is coming down the line and be able to say that YOU had a part in the development.

Find out MORE here

Friday, May 26, 2006

How Secure is Your Portable Data?

Artemis Solutions Group announced today the immediate availability of their latest innovative product under the BioCert® product line – the BioCert® ClipBio™ Pro 1GB Secure Fingerprint Flash Drive.

The BioCert® ClipBio™ Pro 1GB biometric flash drive provides consumers with the latest in biometric technology to secure data, while allowing the user to securely control access to their private data with a touch of their fingerprint. The previous version of the ClipBio was featured in Forbes Magazine article "How to Travel Like a Billionaire – 2006" at a price of $229.95.

The newly redesigned ClipBio Pro with 1GB of storage is attractively priced at nearly half the price of the previous model – now only $129.95 through the companies website at www.clipbio.com.

The most conservative estimates by Gartner® Dataquest puts the total unit volumes of USB Flash drives sold in 2005 at 84 Million pieces. But out of those sold how many are truly secure?

Developed in conjunction with Symwave® using their BioPrint® swipe fingerprint technology, the BioCert® ClipBio™ Pro 1GB Flash Drive uses advanced encryption methods and a secure biometric algorithm to authorize users access to their data on a secure partition on the ClipBio Pro.

Secured using AES 128 bit encryption, the secure partition of the BioCert® ClipBio™ Pro 1GB is only accessible when an authorized user swipes their fingerprint over the BioPrint® Sensor through the included Odyssey™ software.

On May 22nd, a story that shocked the nation was released to the press from the United States Department of Defense involving a Veterans Affairs employee having the personal data including the names, addresses medical conditions, and Social Security numbers of 26.5 Million US Veterans stolen from an unsecured disk located at his home.

Even though the Veterans Affairs Secretary, Jim Nicholson said there was no evidence that the data has been used for identity theft purposes, the fact that the data was in the hands of someone other than an authorized individual is a substantial breach of security and public trust. With personal identity theft representing a burgeoning problem throughout the US, this type of information being readily available represents a substantial risk to individuals, business, banking and eCommerce.

“Our BioCert® ClipBio™ Pro 1GB Flash Drive is designed to allow only authorized individuals to have access to your encrypted data stored on the secure partition. Customers have to authenticate their identity with a swipe of their fingerprint on the sensor. The ClipBio Pro is automatically recognized by PCs running the Windows XP operating system and the secure partition is only visible once the user is authenticated.

There are quite literally millions of these USB flash disks in circulation right now with all kinds of personal data on them including credit card numbers, credit reports, birth certificates, financial documents, tax returns and other readily identifiable personal data that could be used in identity theft.

Even though Government Employees are highlighted in the latest confidential information release scandal, business owners and executives don't fare much better with the protection of their "secure data". As an example, at many trade shows and conferences, industrial espionage is a legitimate concern as thieves are always looking to pick up a random BlackBerry, Cell Phone or unattended flash drive of an attending executive to gain competitive intelligence or confidential information.

The BioCert ClipBio and the new to be released iQBioDrive™ thwarts the would-be thieves and secures this confidential data with biometric security” states James Childers – CEO of Artemis Solutions Group (iQBio, Inc.)

Produced in conjunction with Symwave Corporation of San Diego California, the BioCert ClipBio Pro is powered by the Symwave BioPrint SW6888 swipe fingerprint IC.

The BioCert ClipBio Pro is the first product from iQBio, Inc. to incorporate this sensor. iQBio, Inc. is currently in the process of developing a broad range of hardware and software products built around the SW6888 swipe sensor from Symwave including a 100GB iQBioDrive™ Secure Portable Storage™ Drive, desktop fingerprint sensor, integrated keyboard and optical mouse for PC Login, drive, file and folder encryption and single sign on (SSO) password capabilities for applications and websites. These products already in development and testing phases are expected to be released late Q2 or early Q3 2006.

In addition to the standard encryption and private directory software, the BioCert ClipBio Pro comes pre-bundled with a 30 day trial version of iQBioSync™ software developed in conjunction with Dmailer, Inc. iQBioSync allows the user to synchronize their information between PC's including documents, email and browser favorites. This software also allows a user to take their ClipBio Pro to any PC and use it as their own, with their data and email, even being able to send and receive email from a PC that does not have Microsoft Outlook Installed. A full version of the iQBioSync software can be purchased for $29.95.

The ClipBio Pro also includes a suite of open source portable applications including FireFox web browser, Thunderbird email client, OpenOffice Software Suite and ClamWin Antivirus. This suite of applications let any person take their ClipBio Pro to ANY PC with Windows XP loaded and run these applications directly from their flash drive leaving no trace of their application on the host PC. These products are distributed under the GNU open source license agreement. The iQBioSync software bundled with the Portable Application Suite allows any ClipBio Pro owner to open, save, share, store and email Microsoft Office fully compatible documents, pictures, spreadsheets, databases and other files directly from their ClipBio Pro. The complete BioCert ClipBio Pr solution offers a unparalleled combination of software portability and security – all with a swipe of your finger.

Functional, Stylish and Secure, The BioCert® ClipBio™ Pro is one of the most secure, innovative and advanced Personal Secure Portable Storage™ devices on the market. This plug-and-play Secure Portable Storage device may just become the most used accessory you own. Imagine, taking your files with you in an encrypted memory key that can only be opened with your fingerprint. At a value price point of $129.95 , the ClipBio Pro is perfect for Executives, Students, Business Owners, Bankers, Lawyers, Doctors and just about everyone else with a finger.

The BioCert® ClipBio™ Pro from Artemis Solutions Group is about to change the way you secure and travel with information.

More information can be found on the web at www.clipbio.com.

About Artemis Solutions Group & iQBio, Inc. (www.iQBio.com) - ASG (www.artemis-usa.com) is a closely held, private security firm specializing in fingerprint biometric and smart card security solutions. With offices in the US, EU, Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom, ASG sells directly and through its global network of resellers and system integrators best of breed biometric and smart card security systems to small & medium business and local government agencies throughout the world. ASG’s related company iQBio is tasked with design, supplier relations, manufacture and OEM manufacturing oversight and global sourcing, distribution and logistics of its solutions.

ASG markets a range of computer, software and consumer products under its properly registered and owned trademark BioCert® and BioSaf® through a network of domestic and international resellers and extensively on the Internet through their owned and operated websites.

About Symwave (www.symwave.com) - Symwave was founded in February 2001 by a team of leading analog/mixed signal IC design engineers. The BioPrint™ SW6888 swipe-type fingerprint IC solution is designed to provide fingerprint authentication and mouse-pad navigation functionality in power-sensitive and small form-factor application environments, such as mobile handsets, PDAs, laptop computers and direct-attached storage devices. The SW6888 combines proprietary sensing technology with ruggedized, small form factor design and leading-edge software, providing customers with a full fingerprint identification solution. The SW6888 swipe sensor was designed to be the most accurate, easily integrated, cost-effective fingerprint solution available for computing, consumer electronics and mobile devices.

About Dmailer (www.dmailer.com) - Located on the French Riviera and created in 2001, DMAILER is a privately held development and technology licensing company specialized in portable BACKUP & SYNCHRONIZATION software solutions for all sort of mobile devices (USB flash drives, Hard Disk drives, SD cards, mp3 players, iPods etc.). Our Mission is to provide the most innovative and best-in-class portable BACKUP & SYNCHRONIZATION software solutions for mobile device owners. We intend to be the leader in added value software for USB flash drives and mp3 players.

BioCert® and BioSaf® are registered trademarks of Artemis Solutions Group. iQBio™, iQBioSafe™, iQBioSync™, iQBioDrive™, Secure Portable Storage™ Odyssey™ Software and ClipBio™ are trademarks of Artemis Solutions Group. Symwave® and BioPrint® are registered trademarks of the Symwave Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners and companies.




Click read more below to see the full news item

Experience Mobility Comfortably - Get FREE CompuSec

Full Functions. No Limitation. Online Support. FREE CompuSec® is a Security Suite that protects Notebook and Desktop PCs


FREE CompuSec® is a Security Suite that protects Notebook and Desktop PCs. It provides Access Control, Single Sign On, Hard Disk Encryption, CD encryption, file encryption, network encryption and VoIP encryption. This version of CompuSec® is free for private and commercial use with full product functions without any limitations. You can download your free copy at http://www.ce-infosys.com.

FREE CompuSec® provides high level of security with a flexible and transparent mode of operation. Individuals, small groups of users as well as large enterprises use FREE CompuSec®. It combines a complete set of security functions, while providing users the option to configure the product to their own needs. Large organizations will also find a host of special functions to efficiently manage a large implementation of CompuSec®, such as unattended installation, centralized rollout, support for disk images, central software distribution, service functions and central user management.

Pre-Boot-Authentication
Whenever a system starts, users will be required to enter their username and password in order to boot up the operating system. This process provides additional protection since the authentication process is independent of the Operating System. FREE CompuSec® also provides several other help functions in the pre-boot phase to assist users with forgotten passwords.

Password Management
Whenever a system starts, users will be required to enter their username and password in order to boot up the operating system. This process provides additional protection since the authentication process is independent of the Operating System. FREE CompuSec® also provides several other help functions in the pre-boot phase to assist users with forgotten passwords.

Single Sign On
FREE CompuSec® will encrypt and store the system logon password together with the username and the domain name to automatically log the users into their operating system. This function provides a greater level of convenience for users who now only need to remember one set of username and password. FREE CompuSec® also provides a keyboard or screensaver lock that users can quickly activate when they leave their systems momentarily.

Hard Disk Encryption
The hard disk encryption uses a fast implementation of the AES algorithm. This encryption also includes the operating system. Multiple Operating systems are supported on a single computer. The initial encryption can be performed immediately after reboot or transparent while the user is using the PC. The latter which is Background-Encryption allows the user to interrupt the encryption process and shut down the computer at any time. The support of the Hibernation mode is very important to mobile users. In Hibernation, the contents of the computer RAM are written to the disk and the computer shut down. When restarted, the contents in the RAM are reloaded from the hibernation file and the user can continue to work. This is faster and allows the user to shut down in the middle of an application. So far, most hard disk encryption products could not support this mode and disabled hibernation. CE-Infosys is the first company providing support for hibernation mode with its product line.

Encryption of Diskettes, CD-ROM & Removable Media - CDCrypt
Diskettes, CD / DVD and removable media devices such as Memory Sticks and USB thumb drives can be encrypted by FREE CompuSec®. The encryption for CD / DVD uses the CDCrypt feature to support internal and external CD burners that are connected using USB or IDE. With central administration, an encryption policy may define whether a user may or may not switch the mode from encrypted to non-encrypted when using such devices. As such, an organization can easily enforce a policy to use only encrypted Diskettes, Removable Media Devices and CD-RW / CD-R / DVD to minimize the threat of data theft. Such encryption is unobtrusive and does not change the way the user works with these devices.

Advance VPN Client for Secure Connection to Corporate Networks
FREE CompuSec® provides IP encryption for WAN and LAN users. An enhanced IPSec client is a selectable function of FREE CompuSec®. The IP encryption client supports pool address modes, data compression, multiple dial-in points and other features, which are explained in detail in our IPCryptor product literature. The IP encryption of FREE CompuSec® needs an IPCryptor as counterpart in the network.

Encryption of Individual Files - DataCrypt
FREE CompuSec® includes a module that enables users to encrypt individual files called DataCrypt. DataCrypt will enable users to encrypt their messages and send them via email, ftp etc. The data will travel safely over whatever medium chosen to allow CompuSec® users to safely exchange files. DataCrypt can also be used as a software module and can be forwarded to other users without a license free of charge. DataCrypt employs Public-Key-Cryptography based on elliptic curves to generate keys for encryption and decryption. DataCrypt also uses a new technology called ‘Sealing’ that will hide all structures in the header of the encrypted file, giving additional protection against ‘traffic analysis’ on the network.

Encryption of Server Files & Subdirectories - SafeLan
File and Directory Encryption with FREE CompuSec® can be performed for local or network files and/or directories. This function called SafeLan will ensure that all files written or copied into the encrypted directory will automatically be encrypted and remaining completely transparent to the end user. This also means that a user without an authorized directory key will not have access to the directory and will also be unable to see the files. This function is used to separate users of the same file server in a strong cryptographic way and also ensure that server administrators cannot see the contents of the encrypted files. SafeLan supports NTFS, Novell, FAT and network based file systems.

Encryption of Voice Communication - [ClosedTalk]™[ClosedTalk]™ is a component of CompuSec® used for encrypted voice communication between CompuSec® users. The built-in sound system of the computer is used for [ClosedTalk]™. No IP telephone is needed. [ClosedTalk]™ uses Internet to transport the voice data from one user to the other. E-mail addresses are used to contact communication partners. An e-mail address is self-explanatory and easier to remember than traditional phone numbers. [ClosedTalk]™ uses a gatekeeper service to find the communication partner on the network. The Diffie-Hellman key generation protocol is used to provide secure session keys for each talk.

Identity Management
FREE CompuSec® manages the identity of the user for applications. For existing applications requiring passwords, FREE CompuSec® learns the users' passwords, stores them in an encrypted format and automatically inserts the correct password into the application when required. This is available for local and WEB based applications.

Installation & Management
FREE CompuSec® can be installed as a product without a central management station. In this case, a security file is created during installation containing all the user's secret keys. It is the user's responsibility to store this file carefully. In larger organizations, a central management is recommended. This GlobalAdmin station manages all installations and provides additional functions for unattended installations, automatic software rollout and software update, remote password reset and a complete management of the VPN functions. GlobalAdmin also manages the access of multiple users to a single machine as well as the access for a single user to multiple machines. FREE CompuSec® can also be used as an integrated part of a company wide PKI structure. Details are described in the GlobalAdmin product literature. Automatic synchronization with Microsoft user management and Active Directory is provided for the management of CompuSec®.

Support
or individual users, there is a support group available at no cost. The CE-Infosys team visits the user forum regularly to attend to user queries. Please visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CompuSec and join the user forum today. For larger organizations, service and maintenance contracts are available. Please feel free to contact us to find out more about user support for your organization.

Check it out...it looks to be an excellent addition to your arsenal of protection!

Get FREE CompuSec here


Click read more below to see the full news item

The Next Mobile Craze - Calling Tunes

There are signs that the UK is beginning to be gripped by a new mobile craze called Calling Tunes, music tracks that people hear down the phone line when they call a mobile. A great way to personalize your mobile, the UK Calling Tunes service from Orange has had 150,000 downloads since its launch at the start of the year, with the number of users growing by a third each month through word-of-mouth.

Mobile lovers today can pick from over 500 Calling Tunes from 14 different categories - ranging from urban to indie music, film and TV anthems to animal noises - and have them play down their mobile phone line over the repetitive ring ring whilst callers wait for an answer.

This Week's Calling Tunes Top Ten

1. Crazy - Gnarls Barkley
2. Pump It - Black Eyed Peas
3. World At Your Feet (World Cup 2006 Anthem) - Embrace
4. From Paris to Berlin - Infernal
5. Big Brother Theme
6. Sweet Child o' Mine - Guns 'n' Roses
7. Insomnia - Faithless
8. I See You Baby - Groove Armada
9. A-Team Theme
10. SOS - Rhianna


Investigations have shown that Orange customers are choosing their Calling Tunes for a variety of reasons - a significant song that has sentimental value; a chart topper which is getting them dancing at the weekend; a song that encapsulates their personalities perfectly, or one that simply makes their friends smile. One message is coming through loud and clear, it's proving a great way for Britons to express themselves and to personalize their phones.

"This year you'll subject pals to around 20,000 ring rings whilst they wait for you to pick up your mobile, in that time friends could have listened to over 160 songs - we think Calling Tunes are the answer," said Mark Ashford, Head of Music, Orange UK.

"When people hear a Calling Tune, they're genuinely surprised. People want to know how they can get rid of the dull ring ring on their mobile phone line and have the latest number one playing, the A Team theme tune or even a cow mooing!"

Calling Tunes can be experienced by any of Orange's 15 million customers and can be found through Orange World, or 477 on Orange mobile phones, or through the Orange.co.uk website. Calling Tunes cost each GBP2.50 to buy.

Check out Calling Tunes by Orange here

Click read more below to see the full news item

SlingPlayer Mobile for Windows Mobile Smartphone

Sling Media launched today a public beta giving Slingbox owners the ability to watch and control their home television on many of the hottest Windows Mobile smartphones including Motorola Q, T-Mobile SDA and the i-mate SP5m

Sling Media, Inc., a digital lifestyle products company, today announced a public beta program for its new version of SlingPlayer(TM) Mobile for devices based on the Windows Mobile Smartphone Edition operating system. Now Slingbox(TM) owners can watch and control their home TV from any network-enabled mobile phone or handheld computer (PDA) powered by Windows Mobile. The beta version of SlingPlayer Mobile for Windows Smartphone software is available today as a free download from Sling Media's web site, http://www.slingmedia.com, as part of the public beta program. This new software is compatible with devices that run Microsoft's Windows Mobile Smartphone Edition version 5.0.

"The Slingbox has created a whole new phenomenon in television viewing," said Blake Krikorian, Sling Media CEO & co-founder. "With SlingPlayer Mobile, we continue to make it easier to extend your living room TV experience to wherever you happen to be and ensure that you never miss that pivotal play or big news event and that you always know the score."

Complete TV Experience

SlingPlayer Mobile gives consumers their entire home TV experience, including local channels, local sports teams, video on demand, pay per view, etc. Any program that you can watch on your sofa back home, you can now watch via your Windows Mobile-based device. In addition, SlingPlayer Mobile users can also control their home digital video recorder (DVR) to watch recorded shows, pause, rewind, and fast forward live TV, or even queue new recordings while on the road.

At the completion of the public beta period, SlingPlayer Mobile will be available for $29.99 and includes a free 30-day risk free trial. There are no monthly or recurring charges for the use of the software. Users simply need a network connection to access their home television experience, whether that is 3G cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or USB.

Compatible with smartphones such as the Motorola Q, T-Mobile SDA and the i-mate SP5m, Slingbox owners have their pick of the most popular and new wireless devices on the market. A full list of compatible devices is available at http://www.slingmedia.com/mobile.

About Slingbox

The Slingbox is a breakthrough consumer electronics product that enables consumers to watch their living room TV programming from wherever they are by turning virtually any Internet-connected Windows-based laptop or desktop and any Windows Mobile-based device into a personal TV. The Slingbox redirects, or "placeshifts," a single live TV stream from a cable box, satellite receiver, or DVR to the viewer's PC-located anywhere in the home or anywhere in the world, via the Internet.

About Sling Media

Sling Media, Inc. is a digital lifestyle products company creating a family of consumer electronics solutions that are a natural extension of today's digital way of life. The first member of the Sling Media family is the award-winning Slingbox(TM), a device that allows consumers to access their living room television experience at any time, from any location, using a variety of different displays including laptops and desktop PCs, PDAs and smartphones. The Slingbox is available from leading retailers nationwide and through Sling Media's own website. For more information on Sling Media or the Slingbox, visit http://www.slingmedia.com.

Click read more below to see the full news item

Performance T-Shirt

SCOTTEVEST --- functional, fashionable, and innovative clothing

The SeV T-Shirt is now available in a performance fabric. The 3M Quick Dry fabric is designed to draw moisture away from your body, keeping you drier, cooler and more comfortable. It is perfect for athletics, yet stylish enough to wear around town. In addition to moisture management, most stains wash out with normal home laundering, the fabric remains soft and breathable and colors stay brighter.


We've maintained the design elements that have made the SeV T-Shirt so popular. Unlike t-shirts that just have a pocket sewn on the outside that will stretch and pull, this t-shirt is designed to enable you to place a device in the pocket and NOT have it pull on your neck or stretch your shirt.

Our Weight Management System™ has been incorporated to provide you with the ultimate in comfort and yet the versatility of being able to carry your devices. The pocket will hold most commonly used devices, such Apple's Nano and iPod without affecting the neckline. For added comfort, the pocket is lined with special fabric, designed to hold its shape and prevent chafing.


The SeV T-Shirt features the patented Personal Area Network and a single ear loop. There is a metal zipper pull with a subtle SeV logo identifying you as a truly connected person!

It is available either as short sleeve ($29.99) or long sleeve ($34.99).

SCOTTEVEST --- functional, fashionable, and innovative clothing

Visit SCOTTEVEST here or click READ MORE below to read my take on the "ORIGINAL" SeV T-shirt



The "Original" SeV T-Shirt


The "SeV-T" --- Simple Yet Quite Unique



Of course I gave gone through a myriad of different t-shirts in my life. The ones I bought from trips to great vacation spots or the few I picked up to remember a terrific concert all have done their time. I have even tried a few that had pockets so I could carry that extra item but you know how they are. The pocket looks great until you put something in it then it just stretches the shirt and eventually you look like --- well, you know what I mean; it just looks bad, really bad.

But I really liked the idea of a single pocket on my shirts because I liked the option of being able to carry that pack of gum or a small device and yes, on occasion that old small cell phone I used to use. It was convenient and I liked it and it looked like hell! That is until SCOTTEVEST designed a t-shirt that never looks bad. That’s right; the SeV t-shirt has been meticulously designed to give you comfort, look great and provide you with what SCOTTEVEST has been renowned for --- a pocket!

This is just not an ordinary pocket either! SCOTTEVEST incorporated that "almost hidden" pocket concept so the shirt NEVER looks "frumpy" and using what made their vests so remarkable, this pocket has been designed to balance whatever you carry so it does not pull on your neck and won’t stretch the fabric. Alright, you could place a brick in the pocket and it will stretch but using it for what it was meant to carry will give you a means to carry items and always look fine!

I was pretty impressed with the tailoring of the pocket both on the outside and in the unique balancing system sewn on the inside. From the outside, a vertical fine mesh zipper has been sewn with perfect stitching. The "pull" has a SeV logo on either side giving it just that little extra "touch of class". Placed to the right of the “zipper pocket” is a small embroidered SeV logo as well as having a small logo on the back of the shirt.

Typical of SeV clothing, quality craftsmanship can be found throughout the t-shirt; the neck, sleeves and the bottom of the shirt have near flawless stitching. This t-shirt was made to last as well as provide you with ultimate comfort. As I was admiring the quality of the stitching, I couldn’t help but compare the quality of the 100% cotton shirt to the one I was wearing. Both indicated that they were 100% cotton and both were CLEARLY different. The “touch and feel” of the SeV t-shirt exudes fine apparel and for a t-shirt, that is something!

The construction of the balanced pocket is really quite unique. I refer to it as a three-point locking system: shoulder, arm and zipper entry. The shoulder and arm area balance the items so there is no sag, the zipper entry prevents the pocket from becoming distorted. What is even “cooler” is that there are NO VISIBLE SEAMS. After looking at it, I wondered why it took so long for someone to design a pocket that is functional yet non-obtrusive. SCOTTEVEST has clearly done that.

Since it is a TEC enabled piece of clothing, you will find the patented Technology Enabled Clothing® (TEC) concept as part of the pocket and there is a collar loop to hold your earphones in place. Of course the neutral ash gray color goes with everything and it is machine washable. This is one t-shirt that you will love to wear!




Click read more below to see the full news item

Thursday, May 25, 2006

PC World Presents: All-in-One Security Suites

PC World Presents:
All-in-One Security Suites
Live Web Chat
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
4pm Pacific Time (7pm Eastern Time)


This promises to be VERY COOL...I plan to be there!

Join in PC World's first ever online chat event all about security technology.
You'll learn about the featured suites, how they were tested and which is best for you. If you register now, you can submit questions for Narasu in advance and receive an e-mail reminder of the event.

To attend the event, go to: http://www.liveworld.com/events/pcworld/security

Is it America's "Coolest" Smartphone?

Some think it is! It has a lot of features...like a very cool QWERTY keypad. But is this enough for you?

Check out what Sascha Segan from PC magazine has to say. In part, Sascha says:

It's the Q, the Motorola Q. The RAZR-thin Motorola Q is the coolest smartphone in America. It's a terrific voice phone, a dandy music player, and a swell e-mail machine. Just be warned: Expensive service plans mean it isn't as cheap as it appears.


Read Sascha's "Q Review" here

The 3-percent federal excise tax - Going Going GONE!

“Today is a good day for American taxpayers. It marks the beginning of the end of an outdated, antiquated tax that has survived a century beyond its original purpose, and by now should have been ancient history,” said Treasury Secretary John Snow. “The federal appeals courts have spoken across the board. It’s time to ‘disconnect’ this tax and put it on the permanent ‘do not call’ list.”

The U.S. Treasury Department today announced it is conceding the legal dispute over the federal excise tax on long-distance telephone service. The Department of Justice will no longer pursue litigation and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will issue refunds of tax on long-distance service for the past three years. Taxpayers will be able to apply for refunds on their 2006 tax forms, to be filed in 2007.

Find the US Treasury website here

What is a hoopy frood?

In honor of the late great Douglas Adams, the hoopy froods at Astraware are celebrating Towel Day on 25th May. A hoopy frood was described by Adams in The Hitch-hiker's Guide to the Galaxy as someone 'who really knows where their towel is'!

All across the world today, people are proudly displaying their towels. Zaphod Tomlinson, CEO of Astraware had this to say on the subject: "Douglas Adams changed our lives - great writing that makes you look at the world from a whole new standpoint, maybe even two standpoints at once, which is cool but gives you a double headache."


Our friends at Astraware coniue to have a great time at work while producing those incredible games we love. The only question I have is: "How many heads does Howard really have"?

Visit Astraware here for some great games and go here to see who Douglas Adams was

MobileTechRoundup Podcast #47

MobileTechRoundup with hosts David Ciccone, James Kendrick and Kevin C. Tofel have their latest podcast up. This is their 47th podcast...wow! They certainly have been busy!

This podcast has some very interesting discussions....check out the commentary about going into the operating room.

You can vist MobileTechRoundup here

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Run Multiple Virtual PCs for Free

Scott Spanbauer from PC World wrote an interesting article talking about how "virtualization software lets you try out new OSes and programs without the risks and hassles of an actual installation".

You might want to read it, it was very interesting. In part, this is what Scott had to say:
If you're contemplating dual- or triple-booting operating systems on your PC, or you want to see how a new version of your current distribution behaves before upgrading, you'll want to consider it. Virtualization software allows you to install and run a new OS without having to repartition your drive or reboot your main operating system. Virtualization also lets you do risky things, like browse the Web using an unpatched version of Windows XP, without endangering the host system.


Read Scott's article here

What's the word from Motorola?- SLIMMER

And the diet continues....word has it that Motorola will continue "slimming" down and fattening their bottom (line) with a new cadre of ultra ultra slim phones.

They plan to call the new line the Scpl, pronounced "scalpel"....reminds me of a hospital. There is no word what will be special about this new line except that we can expect to see five features that other phone makers will NOT have. Hmmm...now what do you think they will be?

TV is one I bet.....naw, everyone will be having TV. What do you think?

DualCor Technologies Appoints New President and COO

DualCor Technologies, Inc announced that PC industry veteran, Rob Howe has joined the company as President and Chief Operating Officer.

"With his extensive experience in the PC industry with giants such as IBM, AT&T and Dell Computer, Rob is an excellent addition to the DualCor executive team," said Tim Glass, co-founder and CEO of DualCor. "Rob has a proven record in driving sales, marketing and operations to bring companies to the next level of success. With his leadership, DualCor will be able to effectively deliver our innovative handtop PC to the masses."



DualCor's signature product, the DualCor cPC, is the world's first ultra portable personal computer to simultaneously run full-function Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005 and Windows Mobile 5.0 operating systems. The DualCor cPC is the only all-in-one, wireless handtop computer that combines the power of a desktop PC and the instant-on convenience of a PDA.

The DualCor cPC allows companies to extend the convenience of running both Windows XP and Windows Mobile 5 in a single device. More specifically, corporate customers can extend the value of existing enterprise application software investments to mobile sales, marketing and field service knowledge workers. Its fully patented, dual-processor architecture and integrated 30 GB hard drive allow users to run all the Microsoft productivity applications they are accustomed to running on their notebook computers, as well as the real-time, non-diluted versions of enterprise applications like SAP, Oracle and Microsoft in the field as easily, and with the same effectiveness, as they are used in the office.

About DualCor Technologies, Inc.

DualCor Technologies, Inc. produces highly innovative, ultra portable computing solutions. DualCor's revolutionary, patented, dual processor architecture has created a new category of hardware for global enterprise computing and promises to end the compromise between mobility, functionality and productivity for the mobile business professional. In creating the "Holy Grail of Enterprise Mobility", DualCor's offerings provide 100% replication of the fully functional, fully connected, non-diluted, intra-enterprise desktop experience in a completely mobile handheld device.

For more information, visit http://www.dualcor.com.

Click read more below to see the full news item

Rural Satellite Broadband Internet Service

New Broadband Option Available Today for Rural Customers in Traditional AT&T 13-State Residential Territory.

AT&T Inc. today announced the availability of its new satellite-based broadband Internet access service, delivering a new service option to millions of rural homes and businesses where DSL and cable services are not offered today.

The new satellite-based broadband service, called "AT&T High Speed Internet Access, powered by WildBlue," is available today to customers in many rural and remote areas across the company's traditional 13-state local residential service area. The new offering furthers AT&T's goal to expand the reach of broadband Internet access, and the services it enables, to 100 percent of homes and businesses in its traditional local service territory.

"Broadband access to the Internet is no longer a luxury, it is a vital need for most households and businesses today," said Jim Callaway, senior executive vice president, AT&T Business Development. "Satellite technology provides a viable broadband option for areas that cannot be effectively served by DSL or cable, enabling AT&T to offer services in areas that have had few or no options previously. Our efforts to expand the reach of broadband will enable many of our rural customers to take full advantage of online business, educational, and communications tools for the very first time."

AT&T is already the nation's largest provider of DSL broadband, with 7.4 million DSL lines in service and DSL service options available to nearly four out of five customer locations within the company's 13-state traditional local service area. The new satellite service provides a new option for as many as 11.5 million additional homes and businesses within this region.

Rural satellite-based broadband subscribers will have three service packages to choose from, with prices ranging from $49.95 to $79.95 per month, and broadband speed options ranging up to 1.5 Mbps downstream and up to 256 Kbps upstream. AT&T satellite-based broadband customers will have direct access to the public Yahoo! portal, which will be set as customers' default Internet home page.

Service options will initially be available in most rural AT&T service areas in the following states: Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Kansas, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Texas. Services are available today in portions of the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Additional availability in these states is expected later in 2006.

The satellite-based broadband offering is delivered via an operating agreement with the satellite high-speed Internet provider WildBlue. The new satellite offering is part of an overall effort by AT&T to evaluate and develop new broadband technologies to serve its business and residential customers.

Earlier this month, AT&T announced expansion of its deployment of WiMAX and other fixed wireless technologies. These technologies show substantial potential for delivery of a range of networking services — such as Voice over IP, Internet access, and private business network access — over broadband wireless connections.

AT&T's new fixed wireless deployments, which will be launched this summer in Pahrump, Nevada, and Red Oak and Midlothian, Texas, will extend the AT&T Yahoo! broadband experience to residential and business customers in these communities, and will enable AT&T to further develop and refine WiMAX and other fixed wireless technologies as potential solutions for delivering services on a mass-market scale. The new communities will join AT&T's existing fixed wireless deployments in Alaska, Georgia and New Jersey.

In addition, AT&T in mid-April launched a limited service offering of wireless broadband Internet access in the North Texas communities of Frisco, McKinney, Prosper, Centennial, and Little Elm. Customers in these service areas have direct access to the public Yahoo! portal, which will be set as customers' default Internet home page.

Click read more below to see the full news item